Cala Mesquida to Cala Agulla: A Family Walk Between Two Beaches

A family friendly coastal walk linking two of northeast Mallorca’s most beautiful beaches. This circular route between Cala Mesquida and Cala Agulla delivers sea views, shady forest, and sandy bays for a cool-down dip at either end. It’s a fun way to explore part of the Peninsula de Llevant Natural Area, with a couple of options to make it shorter depending on the day’s energy levels.

Overview

• Route type: Circular (coastal out, forest return)
• Distance: Around 8-9 km
• Time: 2.5-3 hours return, plus stops (plan for a full day activity if travelling from Palma)
• Start/finish: Cala Mesquida Beach (with an option from Cala Agulla)
• Difficulty: Moderate (a decent climb at the beginning of the hike)
• Suitability: 8yrs+, though younger seasoned walkers will manage. Easy to skip the climb if needed.
• Pushchair friendly: No
• Highlights: Sea cliffs, pine forest and coastal views

The Route

Starting from Cala Mesquida, follow the boardwalk behind the dunes at the southern end of the beach. The route initially follows a dirt trail through low scrub before rising gently, then a sharper clamber, above the coast. Make sure to follow the coastal trail if you plan to reach the peak on route to Cala Agulla (a right turn too early will take you to the same destination but along the wider forest trail that you’ll later return on).

Reaching the lookout, Talaia de Son Jaumell, a 16th century pirate lookout and the high point between the two bays, you’ll be in need of a well earned break for a drink, snacks and of course photos. The views stretch over both beaches and across the Llevant hills.

From here, follow the rocky descent towards Cala Agulla, keeping left at trail junctions. The path winds through shady pines and open stretches of heathland before reaching Cala Molto beach and then Cala Agulla.

If the sun is shining (and you’ve packed swimmies or at least a change) stop for a splash and beach play before looping back via the inland forest path, which is significantly flatter and shaded.

Option – If the climb feels a bit much for little legs, you can skip the summit altogether and stick to the forest route and out back. You’ll miss the panoramic views but wild beaches and peaceful forest trails make this a great option for families  adventuring with under 8s.

Option – If you prefer to walk in reverse, starting from Cala Agulla or Cala Ratjada, you’ll face a slightly gentler but longer climb then a steep descent towards Mesquida. Totally doable and just as scenic if this fits best with your logistics.

Family Friendly Vibe

Best for active families with children who can handle a climb, distance and some uneven ground (or stick to the forest). There’s shade along much of the inland route, and the coastal stretch has plenty of stopping points. Both beaches have seasonal cafés but plan for a picnic between November to March.

Eats & Treats

Between November and March, options are limited, so plan for a proper picnic and bring plenty of water. A short stroll along Cala Agulla takes you to the start of Cala Ratjada, where a number of restaurants and supermarkets stay open year-round if you need to stock up.

From April to October, you’ll find more choice, with the hotels and Spar supermarket in Cala Mesquida open for supplies, along with a beach bar on Cala Mesquida and Cala Agulla’s beach bars for post-hike drinks or ice cream.

Getting There

• By car: Free parking at both beaches.
• By bus: TIB 441 from Artà or Capdepera stops at both Cala Mesquida and Cala Agulla during the season, but only Cala Ratjada from November to April.
• Top tip: If you prefer a shorter day, park one car at each beach and walk one way only.

What to Pack

• Trainers
• Sun protection (even in winter, exposed on ascent)
• Plenty of water
• Snacks or picnic lunch
• Swimwear and towel (even in winter, sunny days will make you want to dip!)

When to Go

Spring and autumn are ideal. Too close to summer and the climb would be sweltering, especially on the exposed coastal side of Cala Mesquida.

Why We Love It

A proper adventure linking two of the northeast’s most unspoilt beaches, with panoramic sea views, old pirate lookouts, and soft sand waiting at both ends. There are also easier options if it feels a bit much for little legs.